If You See This $2 Find at Dollar Tree, Grab a Few

There are a few pantry staples that I cannot live without. And as the building block to some of our most enjoyable family meals, canned tomatoes are at the top of my list. I usually buy what's on sale, and although I'd choose Muir Glen Fire Roasted Whole Tomatoes eight times out of ten, I don't often buy them because they're much pricier than traditional canned tomatoes.

For example, a 28-ounce can sells for $4.99 at my local Kroger. But I especially love using them because they add an extra depth of flavor to everything I make. So when I spotted them for $2 at the Dollar Tree, I stocked up!

Though Dollar Tree now has a "Dollar Plus" section where they sell bigger-ticket items for $3 to $5, almost everything else is $1.25 unless it's otherwise labeled. So when the price is slightly higher, the product is especially noteworthy. That's the case with these Muir Glen tomatoes.

Why I Love Muir Glen Fire Roasted Tomatoes

Their flavor is their primary selling point. Muir Glen roasts their tomatoes over an open flame, caramelizing the natural sugars and giving them this incredible smoky sweetness. It's like they took all the sun-kissed goodness of fresh tomatoes and turned up the volume with a bit of barbecue. When I want to add more complexity to my sauces, soups, and casseroles, I'll sometimes roast canned tomatoes in the oven. It feels worth it in the moment, but the process takes over an hour. A can of Muir Glen is the shortcut. And there isn't any prep work or roasting pans to clean up afterward. (Sometimes, that's the real selling point.) 

I also love their texture. Unlike some canned tomatoes, which can be a bit mushy, these hold their shape, adding body and bite to dishes that need a little extra oomph. Plus, they're organic, which is a really nice bonus. I don't exclusively eat organic, but I try to when I can and feel good about feeding these to my family. 

How I Use Fire Roasted Tomatoes

Because they feel precious, I like to savor these fire-roasted beauties. But there isn't a shortage of ways to use them.

• They're fantastic in marinara. I cook them on low heat with sliced garlic sautéed in olive oil, then add some fresh basil before finishing. The result is a simple, rich sauce that tastes like I spent hours in the kitchen.
• One can, added to chili, takes a regular pot of beans and beef to new heights.
• They're fantastic added to a marinade for meat, giving everything a hint of summertime char that we long for in the colder months.
• They make an excellent substitute for roasted Romas in salsa.
• They’re specifically called for in this chicken tikka masala recipe, but also put a delicious twist on butter chicken. And when combined with coconut milk, ginger, garlic, turmeric, and my favorite spices, they create a smoky, creamy curry base for vegetables, chicken, or seafood.
• They even make a wonderful jam. I like to cook them down with sugar, vinegar, and some chili flakes to create a smoky-sweet tomato jam, which is perfect for spreading on burgers or sandwiches, alongside cheese boards, and even used as a cocktail base. 

So, if you also see Muir Glen Fire Roasted Whole Tomatoes at your local Dollar Tree for $2, grab a few cans. You can thank me later!